If you’re looking for a unique, flexible teaching job in Japan, One Coin English (OCE) may be the opportunity you’ve been waiting for. Since 2014, OCE has been offering an affordable and student-driven alternative to the more traditional corporate eikaiwa schools, and they’ve quickly become one of the most popular choices for those looking to teach English in Japan.
Why One Coin English is Changing the Game
Unlike many language schools that focus on high tuition fees or rigid corporate structures, OCE aims to make English education accessible to everyone by offering lessons for just ¥500 (around $3.50). Despite its affordable prices, OCE ensures that both students and teachers benefit from a flexible, supportive, and culturally immersive environment.
Here are some key features that make OCE stand out:
- Affordable Lessons: Group lessons start at ¥500 per student, offering English classes to those who may not otherwise be able to afford them.
- Locations: 11 locations across Tokyo, Yokohama, and Saitama, plus an option for online teaching.
- Teaching Style: Casual, conversation-focused lessons that prioritize student engagement over rigid grammar drills.
- Diverse Staff: With over 100 teachers from 50+ countries, OCE fosters a multicultural and global environment.
Five Reasons to Teach at One Coin English
1. Mission-Driven Work
OCE is focused on making English accessible to everyone, especially underserved groups like retirees, low-income adults, and casual learners. Teachers love the opportunity to work with students who are genuinely motivated to learn, rather than those who are forced into classes by their companies.
"My students aren’t here because their company forced them—they genuinely want to learn."
2. Flexible Teaching Options
Whether you're looking for group classes, private lessons, or hybrid teaching, OCE has flexible opportunities that fit a variety of teaching styles and schedules.
- Group Classes: ¥500 per student
- Private Lessons: ¥3,960 per hour
- Online/Hybrid Teaching: Offering flexibility to work from home or teach at OCE’s physical locations.
3. Fast Career Progression
OCE is known for promoting from within, allowing teachers to climb the career ladder quickly. If you’re looking for more than just a teaching job, OCE offers opportunities in senior roles such as:
- Senior Instructor: Involved in curriculum development.
- School Manager: Leading a branch and overseeing daily operations.
- Success Partner: Focused on student recruitment and growth.
4. Diverse, Global Team
OCE is made up of instructors from over 50 different countries. This international team not only enhances the workplace culture but also provides a unique opportunity to collaborate and share teaching strategies from all over the world.
"We share teaching hacks over international potlucks—it feels like a UN meeting!"
5. Perks You Won’t Find Elsewhere
OCE offers perks that go beyond just a paycheck:
- Visa Sponsorship: Available for top performers.
- Sponsored Cultural Events: Take part in traditional Japanese activities like sakura viewing or BBQs.
- Japanese Language Support: Free lessons for staff who want to improve their Japanese language skills.
Who Thrives at One Coin English?
One Coin English attracts a wide range of teachers. Whether you’re a fresh graduate, a career changer, or a digital nomad looking for flexible hours, OCE can be an ideal match. The school’s laid-back, conversation-focused teaching style may not suit everyone, especially those seeking more structured environments or test-prep teaching roles.
Ideal candidates include:
- New graduates wanting to gain experience in Japan.
- Career changers entering the teaching field.
- Digital nomads seeking work-life balance and flexible hours.
- Bilinguals who enjoy helping students beyond teaching English, such as in counseling roles.
How to Apply
OCE is always looking for passionate teachers to join their growing team. The application process is simple and straightforward:
- Browse Openings: Check the OCE Careers page for current job listings.
- Prepare for a Demo Lesson: Expect a 10-minute lesson to showcase your teaching style.
- Interview: Typically, there are 1-2 rounds of interviews, including a final meeting with a school manager.
Pro tip: Applications are accepted year-round, but peak periods are in March and September when new sessions start.
Pay and Benefits
- Hourly Pay: ¥2,500–3,500 depending on class type.
- Bonuses: Up to ¥10,000 per month for retention.
- Visa Sponsorship: Available for qualified candidates.
How One Coin English Compares to Other Eikaiwa Schools
One Coin English stands out from traditional eikaiwa schools in several ways. Here’s a quick comparison:
One Coin English vs. Corporate Eikaiwa: Key Differences
Final Thoughts: Why One Coin English is a Top Choice for Teachers in Japan
One Coin English offers an alternative to the typical corporate eikaiwa model, providing flexibility, career growth, and an opportunity to teach students who are genuinely motivated. If you're looking for a job that combines cultural immersion, rewarding work, and the freedom to design your own lessons, OCE could be a great fit.
To apply or find out more about the positions currently available, visit the One Coin English Careers page.